First-Time Home Buyer Down Payment Assistance by State
CalHFA, CHFA, OHFA, TSAHC, and Florida Hometown Heroes — what each program offers and how to qualify in California, Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas, and Florida.
Most first-time home buyers leave thousands of dollars on the table because they don't know their state has a down payment assistance (DPA) program designed for them. Every state we lend in has at least one — and most can be layered on top of an FHA, VA, USDA, or Conventional loan to dramatically reduce cash to close.
California: CalHFA's MyHome Assistance and the Dream For All Shared Appreciation loan (when funded) can cover the entire down payment for eligible first-time buyers in San Diego County and beyond.
Colorado: CHFA offers down payment grants and silent second mortgages for first-time and repeat buyers across El Paso, Teller, and Pueblo counties. Pairs especially well with VA financing for Colorado Springs military families.
Oklahoma: OHFA's Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance gives you 3.5% as a grant (not a lien) when paired with FHA, VA, USDA, or Conventional. The Chenoa Fund offers an additional path for borrowers who don't fit OHFA's income limits.
Texas: TSAHC and TDHCA both offer DPA grants and second-lien options. TSAHC has dedicated programs for teachers, peace officers, EMS, and corrections officers across San Antonio and Bexar County.
Florida: The Hometown Heroes Housing Program offers down payment and closing cost assistance to frontline workers — law enforcement, educators, healthcare, and active military — buying a primary residence in Florida, including Bradenton and Sarasota.
Programs change often and funds run out. Talk to a local loan officer to confirm what's currently available in your county and how much you actually qualify for.
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